How to Spot the Signs of a Brain Tumor
Brain tumors can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. While the idea of a brain tumor can be scary, understanding the signs and symptoms can help with early detection and treatment. In this article, we’ll look at ten of the most common symptoms, why they happen and when you should see a doctor.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Brain Tumors
1. Headaches
Frequent or worsening headaches are a well-known symptom of brain tumors. They may:
- Be more intense in the morning.
- Get worse over time.
- Not respond to usual pain relief.
- Come with nausea or vomiting.
Not every headache means you have a brain tumor, but a new pattern of headaches is worth investigating.
2. Seizures
Brain tumors can trigger seizures by disrupting the brain’s electrical activity. These may involve:
- Jerking movements.
- Loss of awareness.
- Confusion.
- Unusual sensations (like a strange smell or taste).
Even people without a history of seizures can experience one due to a brain tumor.
3. Vision or Hearing Problems
Changes in your vision or hearing can be signs of a tumor near the eyes, ears or related nerves. This could include:
- Double or blurry vision.
- Loss of side vision.
- Hearing loss.
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
Gradual or sudden changes in how you see or hear should be checked by a doctor.
4. Balance and Coordination Issues
Tumors that affect the cerebellum or other motor-related areas can cause:
- Trouble walking straight.
- Clumsiness or falling.
- Dizziness.
- Difficulty using hands or picking things up.
If you're normally steady and start having balance issues, it’s time to get evaluated.
5. Personality or Behavioral Changes
The frontal lobe of the brain helps control how we think, behave and make decisions. Tumors here may cause:
- Mood swings.
- Memory problems.
- Depression or anxiety.
- Poor judgment.
Sometimes these changes are subtle at first and mistaken for stress or aging.
6. Nausea and Vomiting
Although common in many illnesses, persistent nausea or vomiting—especially when combined with headaches or dizziness—can signal increased pressure in the brain from a tumor.
7. Speech and Language Difficulties
Tumors in the brain’s language centers may lead to:
- Trouble speaking clearly.
- Difficulty understanding speech.
- Struggling to find the right words.
These symptoms can be sudden or gradual and may be mistaken for signs of a stroke.
8. Numbness or Weakness
Tumors can interfere with the brain’s ability to send signals to parts of the body, causing:
- Weakness in one arm or leg.
- Tingling or numbness on one side.
- Difficulty with fine motor skills.
This often mimics the effects of a stroke and should be taken seriously.
9. Fatigue
Extreme tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest is a lesser-known but common symptom. Fatigue caused by brain tumors may come with:
- Low energy throughout the day.
- Trouble focusing.
- Feeling mentally “foggy.”
Unlike ordinary tiredness, this kind of fatigue can feel overwhelming and persistent.
10. Hormonal or Endocrine Problems
Tumors near the pituitary gland or hypothalamus can disrupt hormone levels, leading to:
- Weight changes.
- Irregular menstrual cycles.
- Excessive thirst or urination.
- Growth issues (especially in children).
These changes may be overlooked at first but can be important clues.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Many of these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than brain tumors. However, if you experience multiple symptoms, or if they are new, worsening or unusual for you, don’t ignore them. It’s always better to check with a doctor for peace of mind.
Diagnosis usually starts with a physical exam and may include imaging tests like an MRI or CT scan to look at the brain.
The Importance of Early Detection
While not all brain tumors are cancerous, even benign ones can be dangerous if they press on sensitive areas. Early diagnosis can lead to better treatment options and outcomes. Treatments may involve surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or a combination of multiple treatments.
Keep reading to learn about foods that help support brain function.